India, Jan. 23 -- A ctor Pankaj Tripathi, known for his work across film and theatre, has stepped into a new role - that of a theatre producer. His maiden production, Lailaaj, will be staged at Bharat Rang Mahotsav, the annual theatre festival hosted by the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, beginning January 27. Co-produced by his wife, Mridula Tripathi, the play is especially personal for the actor as it marks the acting debut of his 19-year-old daughter, Aashi, who makes her first stage appearance through the production. "Seeing my daughter Aashi in my theatre play adds an emotional layer that I will always cherish. I see this not just as a performance, but as an offering to the theatre community that shaped me. It is a very significant and emotional moment for us," he tells us, adding that Aashi's interest in theatre grew organically. Aashi has already performed Lailaaj in Mumbai, and will now bring the play to Delhi for the first time. Asked if he has offered her advice as she steps into acting, Pankaj says, "I don't give her any advice. This is her journey and I always prefer that she listens to what her teacher and director tell her. ye uski khud ki journey hai and wo khud hi seekhegi sab." For Pankaj, the NSD festival also marks a homecoming as he is returning to Bharat Rang Mahotsav after 25 years....